The global air cargo sector is undergoing a steady shift towards automation and data-driven operations, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said in its 2026 Technology Trend Radar.
The report points to growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, alongside increased focus on data integration and supply chain transparency, as key drivers reshaping the industry.
IATA said technology priorities identified in 2025 remain largely unchanged, with notable advances in areas such as intelligent decision-making and robotics. The sector continues to move towards greater automation and more connected, transparent supply chains.
The 2026 radar assesses 24 technologies across six domains: intelligent decision-making and analytics, wearables, robotics, sustainable operations, visibility and transparency, and digital process automation and integration.
The findings are based on input from 120 industry professionals, including airlines, IT providers, ground handlers, freight forwarders, and shippers, who evaluated each technology’s expected impact and likely timeline for widespread adoption.
The report shows that several technologies, including artificial intelligence, computer vision, autonomous guided vehicles, and robotics, are moving from early-stage exploration into active deployment.
At the same time, it highlights challenges facing the sector as it adopts new technologies. IATA pointed to a growing gap between investment in automation and workforce readiness, with companies still grappling with how to manage the transition.
Cybersecurity risks are also increasing as systems become more interconnected, while industry stakeholders differ on which technologies will have the greatest impact on cargo operations.
IATA said the sector will need to balance technological investment with workforce development and closer collaboration to improve performance, strengthen resilience, and reduce environmental impact.
Source: https://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/3/1239/565039/Business/Tech/AI,-robotics-drive-transformation-in-air-cargo-sec.aspx
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